Merz accuses Germany's AfD of pro-Russia stance and ethnic cleansing rhetoric

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz accused the far-right AfD party of supporting Russia against Germany's interests and promoting anti-migration policies equivalent to "ethnic cleansing" during a Bundestag speech on September 9. Merz said the AfD's "remigration" proposals would force migrants out, creating skilled labor shortages that would cripple hospitals, nursing homes, and restaurants. He also criticized AfD calls to halt Ukraine support, citing a recent drone attack on a German airport allegedly by Moscow. The AfD responded that Merz deliberately distorts its position to demonize the party. The accusations follow the AfD's electoral victory in Saxony-Anhalt, where it won 44% of votes but failed to secure an absolute majority.